What should you do about each cause of a leaking roof?
Short answer. Match the fix to the cause: replace cracked pipe boots, rebuild failed flashing rather than caulking it, replace missing or creased shingles, refasten nail pops, clear and rework worn valleys, fix gutters that back up, and correct attic ventilation when the drip is really condensation. When the cause is simply an old, worn-out roof, the right fix is replacement.
Cause and fix
- Cracked pipe boot: replace the boot. A slip-over repair collar works as a stopgap.
- Chimney flashing: new apron, step and counterflashing, plus a cricket if the chimney is wide. Water here damages masonry and framing, so do not wait.
- Sidewall flashing or missing kickout: open the siding and install proper steps and a kickout. Rot behind the siding grows quietly.
- Wind-damaged shingles: replace creased or missing shingles and hand-seal tabs, but photograph everything first in case it is a claim.
- Hail damage: get an inspection; widespread bruising usually means a slope or full replacement, often through insurance.
- Nail pops: pull the nail, refasten beside the old hole, and seal it.
- Valley wear or debris: clear the debris; rework a worn valley with new lining and shingles.
- Gutter backup: keep gutters flowing, check the drip edge and fascia, and consider larger downspouts.
- Skylight: reflash it or replace the unit.
- Condensation: balance soffit intake with ridge exhaust, seal attic air leaks, and vent bath fans outdoors.
- An old roof: plan a replacement and stop paying for patch after patch.
DIY or professional
A boot, a nail pop or a couple of shingles on a low, walkable roof are fair DIY jobs. Flashing at walls and chimneys, valleys, decking and anything storm related are better left to a roofer, both for safety and for insurance documentation.
See common leak causes, gutter sizing and guards and ventilation basics.